Members of the public are being encouraged to enjoy the warm weather safely, with temperatures around Glasgow set to rise in the coming days.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is urging people to take simple steps to look after themselves and their families in the sun and warm conditions, helping to avoid illness or injury.
During warmer weather, common issues can include sunburn, heat exhaustion, dehydration, food poisoning, and bites and stings. Many of these can be prevented with a little extra care. NHSGGC is advising people to:
- Stay safe in the sun – Wear high-factor sunscreen, cover up with suitable clothing – and a hat, stay hydrated, and spend time in the shade where possible.
- Stay hydrated – make sure you drink additional water as your body needs much more fluid to cope with the heat
- Take care with food – When barbecuing, ensure food is cooked thoroughly and evenly, and keep raw and cooked foods separate.
- Be prepared at home – Keep a supply of over-the-counter medicines such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, treatments for bites and stings, and antihistamines for allergies.
- Have basic first aid supplies – A simple first aid kit, including plasters, bandages and antiseptic wipes, along with an ice pack, can help manage minor injuries such as cuts, bruises, sprains and strains.
If you do feel unwell or have a minor injury, NHSGGC is reminding people to seek the right care in the right place.
People are encouraged to treat themselves at home using trusted information such as the NHS Inform website and the NHS 24 Online App. Information on some common injuries and illnesses and how to treat them can also be found on the NHSGGC website: How to manage some common Injuries and Illnesses – NHSGGC.
Anyone who needs urgent medical care, or who is looking for help out of hours, should contact NHS 24 by calling 111. There you will be assessed and directed to the most appropriate care.
If your condition is very urgent or life-threatening, always call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
Dr John O’Dowd, Interim Director of Public Health for NHSGGC, said: “The warm weather is a great opportunity to spend time outdoors and enjoy time with family and friends.
“We want everyone to enjoy this safely by taking simple steps such as protecting themselves in the sun, staying hydrated and preparing food properly. These small actions can help prevent common illnesses and injuries at this time of year.
“By thinking ABC before attending A&E, you can make sure you are getting the right care in the right place, while also helping to protect services for those who need them most.”
For more information about staying safe in hot weather, go to NHS Inform.
Accessing the right care is as easy as ABC:
Ask yourself: Do I need to go out? For information on keeping yourself well and treating minor illnesses and injuries from home, go to NHS Inform or download the NHS24 app.
Be aware: There is help for many conditions right on your doorstep. Your local GP, pharmacy, dentist or optician offer a range of services.
Call 111: If it’s urgent, or you’re not sure, call NHS24 on 111. They’ll make sure you get the help you need. Unless it’s an emergency, think ABC before going to A&E.
For more on accessing the right care, go to: Right Care, Right Place – NHSGGC